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Tiffany's Adventures in China

Unexpected Discoveries

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

This morning, we set out to a typical Chinese market before the preparation of our lunch. I was surprised to encounter some remarkably fresh dragonfruit for sale there-- it's a popular fruit in Vietnam, where the temperature is incredibly tropical. (See picture.) I was pretty tempted to purchase one but realized that I did not have a knife (or something along those lines) to cut it open with; sadly, I had to forgo that opportunity.

Speaking of surprises, our evening stop happened to be a Chinese hotspot for art exhibits, 798 Contemporary Art. I very much expected the place to be a bit boring, since I've always found art to be somewhat dull, especially in museum exhibits. However, to my surprise, 798 was not a usual art exhibit.

798 isn't really a museum at all; actually, it's more of an outdoor do-as-you-please sort of thing. We were free to roam since the area wasn't just one building. On the contrary, it had several streets that had random exhibits or even shops offering their goods. My friends and I roamed around for an hour to seek out possible souvenirs. 798 sported artistic graffiti on the walls and sculptures dotted the sides of the streets, giving the place an atmosphere of creativity and idealism.

All in all, the fifth of August's adventure had some hidden surprises that I initially perceived and expected to be dull. What a day.

Cheers, my friends.

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2 comments:

Karen Wells said...

I googled dragon fruit and it's too bad you didn't have a knife. According to the website, "Dragon fruit tastes wonderful! - sweet and crunchy, with a flavor that's like a cross between kiwi and pear." Thinks for posting about this fruit. I learned something new today. I'm glad 798 held some surprises for you. Sounds like the jet lag may be gone! Karen Wells DSA South Africa

RJ Stangherlin said...

Hi, Tiffany,

I read all the blogs, and since I tackle them alphabetically, as I read you, I have read nearly everyone else's postings. I must tell you that in each of your posts you bring something totally new to my reading experience, and I love the details you include. You bring a fresh new perspective through your details. I thought the museum was a contained structure, and not a series of open interactive places to learn.

I have never heard graffiti described as a combination of creativity and idealism. Lovely, just like your title. You have an interesting and creative command of language and an artist's eye for detail. Lovely.

RJ Stangherlin
PA DEN Leadership Council Blog Coordinator

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Essential Programs Details

Duration 15 days
When August 4th - 18th, 2009
Focus History/Culture
Martial Arts
Modern/Ancient Architecture